KATHMANDU: Choosing the right electric hatchback has become increasingly difficult for buyers in Nepal, with several models competing in the same price segment.
Buyers spending between Rs 2.5 million and Rs 3.5 million can now choose from models such as the Dongfeng Nammi Box, BYD Atto 1, Tata Tiago EV, Proton e.MAS 5 and KAIYI E-Qute 04.
Among these, the Dongfeng Nammi Box E2 and Proton e.MAS 5 have attracted considerable interest. Both offer modern designs, different battery options and practical features. However, their specifications and strengths differ.
Let’s compare these two electric hatchbacks to see what each offers in terms of price, battery, range, performance and practicality.
Price and battery: how do they compare?
Both the Dongfeng Nammi Box and Proton e.MAS 5 are available with two battery options. The Nammi Box E2 330 comes with a 31.4 kWh battery, while the E2 430 gets a larger 42.3 kWh battery.
Similarly, the Proton e.MAS 5 is available in Prime and Premium variants. The Prime gets a 30.12 kWh battery, while the Premium comes with a 40.16 kWh battery.
The price comparison is interesting. The Nammi Box E2 430 and Proton e.MAS 5 Prime are both priced at Rs 3.299 million. However, the Nammi offers a significantly larger 42.3 kWh battery compared to the 30.12 kWh pack in the Proton.
The Nammi Box E2 330 is also available at a lower price for buyers who do not need the larger battery.
On the other hand, the Proton e.MAS 5 Premium costs Rs 3.699 million. For the additional Rs 400,000, buyers get a more powerful motor, a larger battery and additional features.
Range and motor performance: which is better?
The Dongfeng Nammi Box E2 comes with a 49.5 kW electric motor in both battery versions. The smaller battery variant offers a WLTP-rated range of 237 kilometers, while the larger battery version provides 317 kilometers.
The Proton e.MAS 5 has different motor outputs depending on the variant. The Prime produces 58 kW, while the Premium delivers 85 kW of power. Both variants feature a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system.
In terms of range, the e.MAS 5 Prime offers a claimed WLTP range of 225 kilometers. The Premium variant delivers 325 kilometers.
In terms of motor power, the Proton e.MAS 5 has an advantage. Its 85 kW motor in the Premium variant offers more power than the Nammi Box.
However, the Nammi Box E2 430 offers a larger battery than the e.MAS 5 Prime at the same price. The range figures of the larger-battery versions are also quite close.
Dimensions and boot space: which is more practical?
There are some differences in the dimensions of these two hatchbacks. The Proton e.MAS 5 is longer and taller, while the Nammi Box is slightly wider and has a marginally longer wheelbase.
Storage capacity is another area where the Proton has an advantage. The e.MAS 5 offers up to 1,320 liters of boot space when the rear seats are folded. It also gets an additional 70-litre front trunk.
In comparison, the Nammi Box offers up to 945 liters of cargo space with the rear seats folded. For buyers who frequently travel with family or carry luggage, the additional storage space in the Proton could be useful.
Design and interior: different approaches
The Dongfeng Nammi Box E2 has a distinctive and rounded exterior design. It features projector headlamps, connected LED daytime running lights, frameless doors, hidden door handles and uniquely designed wheel covers.
Inside, the car gets a large touch-screen, a two-spoke steering wheel, a dual-tone dashboard, comfortable seats and a wireless phone charger.
The Proton e.MAS 5, meanwhile, has a sportier and more aerodynamic design. It features sharp headlamps, LED daytime running lights, semi-hidden door handles and aerodynamic wheel designs.
Its interior also features a two-spoke steering wheel, premium seats and a modern dashboard. Safety features and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are among its key highlights.
Suspension and driving experience
The Proton e.MAS 5 features a rear-wheel-drive system and multi-link rear suspension. This setup can offer better stability, handling and comfort, particularly during cornering.
The Nammi Box E2 uses a front-wheel-drive system. Its key strengths are its compact design and battery options. Both models offer ground clearance of around 175 mm, making them suitable for regular road use in Nepal.
Verdict
Based on the price and specifications, the Dongfeng Nammi Box E2 430 is an attractive option for buyers prioritizing battery capacity and driving range. At Rs 3.299 million, it offers a 42.3 kWh battery and a claimed range of 317 kilometers.
However, buyers looking for more power, greater cargo space, a front trunk and rear multi-link suspension may find the Proton e.MAS 5 Premium more suitable. Its 85 kW motor and 325-kilometre WLTP range also offer a different driving experience.
